And to introduce the habit, we have only to
let the merchants alone. Whether we may descend, by a single step,
from the present state to that of perfect freedom of commerce in this
article; whether any, and what, intermediate operation may be necessary
to prepare the way to this; what cautions must be observed for the
security of his Majesty's revenue, which we do not wish to impair, will
rest with the wisdom of his ministers, whose knowledge of the subject
will enable them to devise the best plans, and whose patriotism and
justice will dispose them to pursue them. To the friendly dispositions
of your Excellency, of which we have had such early and multiplied
proofs, I take the liberty of committing this subject, particularly,
trusting that some method may be devised of reconciling the collection
of his Majesty's revenues with the interests of the two nations; and
have the honor of assuring you of those sincere sentiments of esteem and
respect, with which I am your Excellency's most obedient and most humble
servant,
Th: Jefferson.
LETTER LXXI.--TO MR. SKIPWITH, July 28, 1787
TO MR.
Pages:
400
401
402
403
404
405
406
407
408
409
410
411
412
413
414
415
416
417
418
419
420
421
422
423
424